New Regulations for Tracking Petroleum Transport in Mexico

In an effort to enhance the oversight and security of petroleum transport, Mexico has introduced new regulations aimed at bolstering the identification, visibility, and traceability of vehicles involved in the transport and distribution of petroleum products, petrochemicals, and liquefied petroleum gas. The recent measures, effective from September 24, 2025, are designed to curb illegal activities and ensure a more orderly development of the sector.

Understanding the New Guidelines

The National Energy Commission (CNE) has laid out specific administrative provisions affecting permit holders who transport these products by methods other than pipelines. The guidelines require adherence to technical specifications for vehicle marking and GPS system interoperability, ensuring real-time monitoring of transport units.

Vehicle Identification and Marking

All vehicles covered by these permits must bear comprehensive and permanent markings. A crucial component of this is the inclusion of a QR code, issued by the CNE, which must adhere to specific standards. The responsibility for maintaining the integrity and readability of these markings lies solely with the permit holder. Importantly, vehicles cannot be associated with multiple permits simultaneously.

QR Code Implementation

The QR code generator functionality provided by the CNE ensures that the codes are easily readable by standard mobile devices. This allows the CNE and other authorities to verify ownership and product origins promptly. The QR codes, which are non-transferable, are generated through the CNE's electronic system, SIRACP, and provided to permit holders within 15 business days of the regulation's enactment.

Mandatory GPS Systems

An active GPS system is now mandatory for all vehicles under these permits. This system must enable continuous location tracking, allowing the CNE to monitor the vehicles in real-time. Any system malfunctions must be reported to SIRACP to ensure uninterrupted operation.

Obligations of Permit Holders

• Maintain all vehicle markings, including the QR code, in a visible and legible condition.
• Report any incidents or system malfunctions to the CNE within 48 hours.
• Ensure current information on authorized vehicles is maintained at all times.
• Facilitate inspections by the CNE of the signage, QR code, and GPS systems.
• Avoid misuse of QR codes across different permits.

Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to penalties as outlined in the Hydrocarbons Sector Law.

Additional Considerations

For permit holders using tanker trucks, there is a 15-day window to update permits with the CNE following the resolution's enactment. Those lacking a GPS system have 30 days to implement one. Furthermore, permit holders should review the resolution annexes to fully understand the technical specifications applicable to their products.

These regulations reflect Mexico's commitment to ensuring the safe and transparent transport of petroleum products, aiming to enhance sector integrity and reduce illicit activities.